The 9 essentials for a smooth return to routine
Written by Place de la Cité | August 7, 2020
The vacation period is already coming to an end. For many, the return to work or school is in sight. Although getting back into the routine looks a little different this year with COVID-19, one thing remains: there’s excitement in the air! But that doesn’t mean it has to be stressful! We’ve simplified this important period for you by drawing up THE shopping planning list. Here’s what you need for a smooth return to routine!
1. A beautiful and practical lunch box
Who says back to work says back to lunches! To make your lunchtimes even more enjoyable, get yourself a colorful lunch box that will attract compliments. The prettier it is, the more interesting its contents, don’t you think?
Our favorites:
- The Urbani lunch boxes at Florin: stylish and well designed, they include a very practical insulated compartment;
- The lunch boxes from Tracker at Bentley: with their divided compartments, included spoon and recycled materials, they have it all!
2. A backpack or briefcase that will follow us everywhere
Oh, the quest for the perfect bag, it’s not easy! Whatever your lifestyle, we’ve found the best bags for back-to-school. It’s up to you to choose your side: are you more of a backpack or briefcase person?
Our favorite backpacks:
- We love the wide selection of colorful or athletic bags from Bentley;
- We love the variety of colorful patterns at Zac.
Our favorite briefcases:
3. Shoes that are as stylish as they are comfortable
While it’s not easy to say goodbye to the summer holidays, it’s always easier to do so by treating yourself to a new pair of shoes! Leave a pair of flat shoes at the office and maybe also a pair of high heels for impromptu after-work get-togethers. You never know when a celebration is in order!
Our recommendations for flat shoes:
- For an elegant and refined look, the shoes from Les Pieds sur Terre are ideal;
- For their urban look and legendary comfort, nothing beats Doc Marten’s, available at Moi Mes Souliers.
Our suggestions for high heels:
- For a unique style that will turn heads, opt for the European-imported heels from Moi Mes Souliers;
- Go for a chic look and absolute comfort with Clarks heels, available at Les Pieds sur Terre.
4. Equipment for moving at your own pace
Has lockdown made you fall in love with running or maybe yoga? Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, a little visit to Fradette Sport is a must. There is something for everyone, shoes to fit your feet and everything you need to sportswear, whatever your pace.
Our recommendations? Adidas and Math Sport for shoes, as well as Nike, New Balance and Under Armour for clothing. Have a good workout!
5. What you need to face the bad weather
The routine doesn’t stop when it rains! Come rain or shine, you’ll have to go to work or school. Since no one likes to get soaked, we wear a raincoat to keep our outfit looking good underneath.
Our favorites:
- Raincoats and coats from the Quebec brand Chlorophylle: durable, high quality and environmentally friendly;
- The Brinly raincoat from Part Two available at Rue : it is ultra-fast to put on and provides a bold style;
6. A little something new in your wardrobe
Addicted to the latest trends? We so understand you! Autumn fashion is so beautiful that we all want to renew our wardrobe at the end of summer. But there’s no need to break the bank to treat yourself a little! Check out the current promotions at our retailers to plan your shopping trip.
7. Inspiration for lunches
Between work, outings and family commitments, we often have little time left for the less fun tasks, such as preparing lunches. To stay organized, we plan and assemble our lunch box in advance. Yes, yes, that even goes for those who work from home!
To never run out of inspiration, we get a cookbook that inspires us for dinner and for the next day’s cold lunches. Here are our suggestions:
- La Maison Anglaise offers a wide selection of cookbooks that will appeal to everyone. Try Kids’ Fun and Healthy Cookbook (to introduce little ones to food preparation) and The Essential Vegan Keto Cookbook (for delicious healthy recipes);
- Reduce your meat consumption with Cuisine Botanique by Stéphanie Audet, executive chef of the restaurant LOV (available from Québec Loisirs)
What if you don’t have time or the patience for the grocery store? Take advantage of the pick-up option at Déli Universel. You can also treat yourself to some delicious takeaway food from La Mère Michèle and take a well-deserved break from cooking.
8. A good workstation at home
Following our research, we have drawn up a list of equipment needed to work from home:
- A computer or tablet
- A desk and a comfortable chair
- A desk lamp
- A filing cabinet or other small storage unit
- Headphones(available from Mobile Snap)
- A printer
Now you are perfectly prepared to return to the routine! Share your tips for returning to work or school on our social networks. We want to see your favorites and all your organizational tricks. We wish you the smoothest and most pleasant return!
